Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Select Courses?
You may register for any course as long as you have completed the prerequisites, if any are required. For more in-depth study, you may want to pursue a Certificate in your area of interest. You do not have to be working toward a Certificate to register for Certificate-level courses.

What If I Am a Beginner?
Many of our students are beginners. Start with classes that have course numbers in the range of 100-399. If you need further guidance, choose your class with the help of a Program Coordinator.

Who Are Program Coordinators?
Program Coordinators are individuals who work with Continuing Education to develop the relevant curriculum as it relates to their fields. All are experts who are involved in what is cutting edge in their respective areas. They are available for student counseling as it relates to course work. Please call the Program Coordinator at 718.817.8594.

Is the Garden accessible and accommodating to students with disabilities?
Yes. For information, please contact the Registrar at 718-817-8610.

What about Professional Credits?
Courses are offered that are certified for credit with the New Jersey Board of Architects, The Association of Professional Landscape Designers, , and The International Society of Arboriculture. Click here for more information.

What about the School of Professional Horticulture?
Visit the Web site for the School at www.nybg.org/edu/soph for detailed information.

Why Should I Be a Member of the Garden?
Among other benefits, the Garden offers discounts on courses. Click here for more information.

What Is a New York Botanical Garden Certificate?

• A Certificate signifies that a student has successfully fulfilled all the requirements of a prescribed series of courses. Several Certificates offer students a choice among areas of concentration.
• The Garden offers Certificates in Botanical Art and Illustration, Floral Design, Horticulture, Botany, Gardening, Horticultural Therapy, and Landscape Design.
• Certificates are awarded each year and have been used by many recipients to prepare for careers in plant-related occupations or to qualify for salary increases and/or increased responsibilities in their current positions.
• Students who expect to complete their Certificate requirements by June 1, 2009, must inform the Registration Office in writing of their candidacy by March 1, 2009. Students will be contacted by April 15 regarding their eligibility. If you are not contacted, please call the Registrar at 718.817.8610. Certificate students must receive passing grades in all courses.
• This year's Certificate Award Ceremony will be held on Sunday, June 7, 2009, at 2 p.m. in the Arthur and Janet Ross Lecture Hall at the Garden. Students and their families are invited to attend.

Please note: The catalog from which you start your certificate program contains the requirements you must fulfill for the completion of your Certificate. See each section for the Certificate requirements.

How Does the Course Numbering System Work?
Courses (e.g., BIL 301 Section A) are identified by a program abbreviation and a three-digit number (BIL 301). Preceding that course number is the session code ( for spring). Section A indicates this is one of several sections offered this session. The three-digit number indicates the following:









Note: 300-599 level courses may be Certificate courses, however, students do not need to be in a Certificate program to enroll in these courses. Prerequisites must be completed if listed.

More Questions?
Call the Registration Office at 718.817.8747.